Between our Baltimore and Washington, DC, venues, more than 17,500 animals representing 900 species call the National Aquarium home. There are constant changes, additions, and more going on behind the scenes that our guests may not notice during their visit. We want to share these fun updates with our community so we’re bringing them to you in our weekly Animal Update posts!

Check our blog every Friday to find out what’s going on… here’s what’s new this week!

Endangered Blind Salamanders Come to DC

Our DC venue has received two Texas blind salamanders! This species of salamander can only be found in one place in the entire world – the Edwards Aquifer near San Marcos, Texas. Because they live their entire lives underground in an underwater cave, they have no eyes!

These are critically endangered animals. Degrading water conditions and overuse of water is severely threatening their only habitat. As a result, the preservation of this species and its habitat has become a top priority for conservation groups.

Very little is known about this species. We are excited to have the opportunity to study their behavior and development more! The salamanders will be in our behind-the-scenes back up area, as they acclimate to their new home but we’ll update you when they’re ready to go on-exhibit.